Combating Winter Blues

At this point, winter feels like it is never ending.

For some of us, this can start to feel heavy and make us drag ourselves through the days. More commonly known as SAD, Seasonal Affective Disorder affects far more people than you may realize. Thankfully a number of companies have looked into how technology can help us get through this period. Here is our round up of our favorite tech and natural solutions for you, that don’t involve getting on a flight to a sun soaked beach!

Tech

Commonly known as SAD lamps, these great pieces of technology help to replicate natural sunlight, which in turn helps to regulate your melatonin (for good sleep) and boost your serotonin levels. Serotonin is what is commonly referred to as your “happiness hormone”.

Lumie - its super slim and portable design means that you can easily take it anywhere with you. Daily exposure, for approximately 20 minutes will boost your energy, mood and focus.

Osalis Energy Light Box - another portable option. This one has a timer function and the possibility of adjusting the brightness.

Red Light Rising - red light therapy works on a cellular level, as opposed to hormonal. It helps with a wide range of issues, which in turn can help with SAD. These include: pain, inflammation, depression, muscle recovery and sleep.

Natural Aids

Setting a regular sleep schedule - the longer darker days can through our circadian rhythm out of sync, so try to ensure that you stick to the same bedtime and wake up. If you have trouble finding your sleep try having some lavender by your bed, or using a lavender essential oil on some cotton wool. For the morning, Lumie also have some great wake up lights, if you need a helping hand. Try to maintain a routine during the day as well, in order to keep your circadian rhythm even.

Exercising - whether you’re into cardio or a more chilled yoga flow, exercise will allow you to unwind and let go of whatever is stressing you. Stress is a major contributor to low moods, and has a particular effect on those who struggle with SAD.

Vitamin D - most adults are deficient, so consider a supplement during these long winter months. We particularly love Solgar’s Vitamin D.